Quick Facts
Biography
Richard Ellis Uihlein (born 1945) is an American businessman, founder of Uline, conservative donor, and heir.
Personal life and education
Uihlein graduated from Stanford University with a BA in history in 1967. He lives in Lake Forest, Illinois and is a descendant of the brewers of Schlitz beer.
Career
Until 1980, Uihlein worked in international sales for General Binding Corporation, a company co-founded by his father, Edgar Uihlein. That year, Uihlein and his wife founded Uline, a shipping supplies company headquartered in Wisconsin, which he and his wife continue to own. Uihlein's family also owns EAU Holdings, a resort in northern Wisconsin.
Political activities
Uihlein has been a Republican donor for decades, and increased his political giving after Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. Uihlein has supported conservative groups and candidates including Ted Cruz, The Club for Growth, and the Illinois Policy Institute. Uihlein is also a major donor to Liberty Principles PAC, Americas PAC, Scott Walker, and Jeanne Ives. In the 2018 election cycle, Uihlein donated to Republican candidates such as Jeanne Ives, Chris McDaniel, Kevin Nicholson, and Neal Tapio.‹See TfM›